Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has rejected allegations made by gold dealer Junior Baksh regarding corruption involving senior government officials and illegal gold dealings. At a press conference, Jagdeo characterized the accusations as unfounded rumors, emphasizing that Baksh has since apologized to both President Irfaan Ali and the President’s mother for his statements.
Jagdeo quoted Baksh, saying, “I have never paid the President or anyone else any money,” and noted that the claims lack any supporting evidence. He suggested that the allegations are part of a political strategy by the Mohameds to distract from their own controversies.
In an interview from March, Baksh mentioned being informed by a business partner about payments to government officials, implicating Jagdeo. However, the Vice President dismissed these claims as lacking credibility and suggested they are politically motivated, especially with elections approaching.
Regarding claims of gold smuggling from Venezuela, Jagdeo stated that these matters should be investigated, but he criticized the timing of the allegations, suggesting they are designed to create a victim narrative for the opposing party.
Additionally, he noted that at least two other billionaire businessmen are considering legal action against Baksh for his statements about their alleged involvement in corrupt activities.
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